Reports emerging from Khar, Bajaur suggest that an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) detonated at or near a local cricket ground, killing a young man identified by residents as Fazalullah. According to initial local accounts, the deceased was believed to have past links with the Afghan Taliban and was reportedly close to Muhammad Usman Turabi, who previously served as Taliban governor in Kunar province.
A message circulated on certain pro-IS channels online has claimed that the so-called Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISKP) carried out the attack, describing the victim as a member of the “apostate Taliban militia.” However, independent verification of this claim remains unavailable. Local law enforcement agencies have yet to issue a formal statement confirming the perpetrator, and security analysts caution that ISKP propaganda frequently seeks to amplify its footprint by claiming incidents opportunistically.
The context of Bajaur district adds gravity to the incident: the region has been a frontline area for militancy, witnessing both Taliban and IS-KP activity over the past decade. Analysts note that ISKP has periodically targeted Afghan Taliban elements in the border belt, particularly when factional rivalries intensify or when it wants to project strength.
Officials and residents emphasize the need for a thorough investigation, urging media and observers to avoid rushing to conclusions until credible evidence emerges. Given ISKP’s history of both orchestrating and exaggerating attacks, independent corroboration, such as forensic examination of the blast site, verification of the communication channel where the claim appeared, and official confirmation—will be critical before attributing responsibility with certainty.
